Ramaphosa in France

Reaffirmation of historical ties and charting a new path of shared prosperity at the centre of President Ramaphosa’s interaction with President of European Parliament

President Cyril Ramaphosa has this morning held discussions with the President of the European Parliament Antonio Tajani in Strasbourg, France.

The strengthening of cooperation between the continents of Africa and Europe, expansion of youth employment and the opportunities and challenges offered by immigration into Europe were at the centre of the discussions between the two leaders.

Reflecting on the historical social and cultural relations between South Africa and Europe, President Ramaphosa has emphasised South Africa’s commitment to strengthen existing relations, with particular focus on further expanding economic ties. “We are renewing our bonds and strengthening our historical ties. Now is the time to chart a new path of prosperity defined by increased investment and trade between our two continents”

President Ramaphosa has expressed his support for President Tajani’s intention to develop an investment-led Marshall Plan for Africa, identifying minerals and minerals beneficiation, cooperation in areas of digital infrastructure, tourism and climate change as areas of cooperation.

The President has further welcomed the European Parliament’s commitment to economic diplomacy saying, “ours is an association of equals and friends who want to work together in partnership”.

The President will address the European Parliament this morning under the theme “A partnership of equals based on shared values”.